Best BYOB Restaurants in Chicago [2024]

Chicago is a city known for its diverse culinary scene, with an abundance of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. One way to make the most of dining out in the city is by choosing a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) restaurant. Not only does it allow diners to bring their favorite bottle of wine or beer, but it also helps keep the cost of dining out more affordable. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best BYOB restaurants in Chicago that offer exceptional food and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Polo Inn Bridgeport U.S.A.

Address: 3322 S Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60608
Phone: +1 (773) 927-7656
Details: $$

The Polo Inn Bridgeport U.S.A. is not only a BYOB restaurant, but also a Bed and Breakfast. The restaurant offers a variety of delicious dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, using fresh ingredients to provide customers with a memorable dining experience. The restaurant is well-known for its BBQ ribs, shrimp and grits, and sampler platter, which allows customers to try all their bests. The restaurant also offers gluten-free options and can cater to large events like bridal showers.

The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable. The owner, Dave Samber, is welcoming and shares stories about the history of the restaurant and the neighborhood. The restaurant has a cool vibe and is a great location for hosting events, with plenty of space for large groups. The Polo Inn Bridgeport U.S.A. is not only a restaurant, but also a bed and breakfast, providing comfortable and spacious rooms, delicious breakfast, and wonderful hospitality.

Overall, The Polo Inn Bridgeport U.S.A. is a hidden gem in Chicago, offering excellent food, a welcoming atmosphere, and attentive staff. It is perfect for anyone looking for a unique dining experience, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The bed and breakfast aspect provides a cozy and comfortable stay for those visiting the area, and the staff’s hospitality makes it feel like a home away from home.

Batter & Berries

Address: 2748 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: +1 (773) 248-7710
Details: $$, Breakfast restaurant

Batter & Berries is a must-try restaurant in Chicago, with exceptional food and a lively atmosphere. The restaurant is BYOB and offers a variety of juices for customers to mix with their drinks. The restaurant has a fun and cheerful decor, with a communal table that adds to the lively atmosphere. It is a popular spot, so it is recommended to arrive early or call ahead to make a reservation.

The food is the highlight of the restaurant, with the French toast being a standout dish. The restaurant offers a French toast flight with several flavors to choose from, including a special Oreo flavor. The homemade chicken sausage and cheesy hash browns are also scrumptious. The service is fast and efficient, with attentive staff who are friendly and helpful.

Overall, Batter & Berries is a great spot for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. The atmosphere is lively, and the food is exceptional. The restaurant is kid-friendly, and the staff is welcoming and attentive. Parking can be a challenge, but the restaurant’s location is convenient. With its BYOB policy and delicious food, Batter & Berries is worth a visit for anyone looking for a unique dining experience in Chicago.

Ann Sathers Restaurant

Address: 909 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: +1 (773) 348-1732
Details: $, Swedish restaurant

Ann Sathers Restaurant is a popular BYOB spot in Chicago that offers a wide range of breakfast and brunch options. The restaurant is known for its delicious cinnamon rolls, which are served warm and melt in your mouth. The portions are huge and shareable, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

The menu at Ann Sathers Restaurant is made from scratch and offers a variety of options, including Swedish pancakes, eggs Benedict, omelets, and breakfast burritos. The restaurant is a great spot to visit before a Cubs game, and the BYOB policy makes it a perfect place for brunch. The staff is attentive and provides excellent service, making the dining experience even better.

Overall, Ann Sathers Restaurant is a gem in Boy’s Town, offering delicious food and a friendly atmosphere. The cinnamon rolls are a must-try, and the BYOB policy allows customers to enjoy their favorite beverages while dining. The restaurant is perfect for groups, as the portions are huge and shareable. If you’re looking for a delicious breakfast or brunch spot in Chicago, Ann Sathers Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.

Eggy’s Diner Chicago

Address: 333 E Benton Pl #103, Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: +1 (773) 234-3449
Details: $$, Diner

Eggy’s Diner is a popular breakfast spot located near Millennium Park in Chicago. They offer amazing takes on basic breakfast and lunch foods, and it is well worth a visit. They take reservations and have amazing service, which is efficient and friendly. The atmosphere is clean and tidy, making it a great place to enjoy a meal.

The portions at Eggy’s Diner are generous, and the prices are fair for Chicago. The menu is large and varied, with something for everyone. The coffee is delicious, with a strong bold flavor, and is self-serve in mini Thermos pots. The staff is always friendly and helpful, and they provide excellent service. The location is a little tricky to find, but it is worth the effort, especially for the view of the park outside.

Overall, Eggy’s Diner is a great place to have breakfast or brunch in Chicago. The food is fast, delicious, and served in large portions. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. The staff is friendly and efficient, making the dining experience even better. If you’re looking for a great breakfast spot in Chicago, Eggy’s Diner should definitely be on your list.

Yolk – South Loop

Address: 1120 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
Phone: +1 (312) 789-9655
Details: $$, Brunch restaurant

Yolk – South Loop is a popular breakfast and lunch spot located near the Hilton and Best Western Grant Park hotels in Chicago. The menu offers a variety of delicious options, including lemon blueberry pancakes, green eggs and ham, and exceptional Nutella crepes with bananas and strawberries. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great value for the money.

The staff at Yolk – South Loop is friendly, attentive, and efficient. They provide excellent service, and many reviewers remarked on the delightful personalities of their servers. The atmosphere is nice, with a cozy diner feel, and the coffee is delicious. The restaurant can get busy, especially on weekends, so it is recommended to arrive early or make a reservation.

Overall, Yolk – South Loop is a fantastic breakfast and lunch spot in downtown Chicago. It is a far better option than many of the hotel restaurants in the area. The menu is varied, with something for everyone, and the portions are large enough to skip lunch. The service is excellent, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. If you’re looking for a great breakfast spot in Chicago, Yolk – South Loop should definitely be on your list.

Goosefoot

Address: 2656 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Phone: +1 (773) 942-7547
Details: $$$$, Fine dining restaurant

Goosefoot is a charming BYOB restaurant in Chicago that offers a unique and playful menu with excellent service. The restaurant is small and intimate, with a modern bistro feel and eclectic decor that changes to match the theme of the menu. The owners, Nina and Chris, are amazing hosts and make diners feel welcome and comfortable, as if they are visiting their house and having dinner in their dining room.

The prix fixe menu at Goosefoot is varied, creative, and impeccably prepared and presented. The restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that takes about three hours, with each course beautifully prepared and delicious. The food is inventive and surprising, with dishes like scallop in a lobster cream sauce, pumpkin soup with crab, and pasta with truffles. The pacing of the courses is leisurely and perfect, making for a memorable dining experience.

The atmosphere at Goosefoot is beautiful, with a lovely ambience and friendly service. The restaurant is BYOB, with no corkage fee, and customers can purchase a bottle from the specialty shop next door. Parking is easy to find, and the restaurant provides a to-go gift at the end, including chocolate bars they make and some seeds you can plant. Overall, Goosefoot is an excellent choice for a special occasion or a romantic night out, and a must-visit for anyone who likes a tasting menu in Chicago.

Gino’s East

Address: 162 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: +1 (312) 266-3337
Details: $$, Pizza restaurant

Gino’s East is an iconic Chicago pizza joint that serves the best deep dish pizza in the city. The original location is located right off the Magnificent Mile, making it an easy walk to many attractions. The pizza is a must-try, with options like the Meaty Legend and Gino’s Supreme, and the hand-rolled cheese sticks are a delicious appetizer. The atmosphere is low-key and cool, with a fun vibe and friendly staff.

The wait time for your pizza is 45 minutes to an hour, but it is well worth it once the mouthwatering, succulent pizza pie is delivered to your table. The wait staff is very friendly and provides great service. Gino’s East is also BYOB, so you can bring your own drinks to enjoy with your pizza. The restaurant has a sports bar feel, with televisions and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages conversation and a slower pace.

Overall, Gino’s East is a must-visit for anyone looking to try authentic deep dish Chicago-style pizza. The restaurant has a nostalgic vibe and offers a fun and laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for families and groups of friends. The wait time for your pizza can be long, but it is well worth it once you taste the delicious pizza. Whether you are a longtime fan or a first-time visitor to Chicago, Gino’s East is an essential stop.

Taste of Peru

Address: 6545 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60626
Phone: +1 (773) 381-4540
Details: $$, Peruvian restaurant

Taste of Peru is a gem of a restaurant in Chicago that offers an exquisite and unique dining experience. The cuisine is genuinely Peruvian, and the portions are generous, leaving customers feeling full and satisfied. The restaurant is BYOB, which adds to the overall experience, and servers are friendly and welcoming, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The menu offers a range of traditional Peruvian dishes, including Bistec a lo Pobre Estilo Llita, Aji de Gallina, Lomo Saltado, and Paella. The Ceviche Especial is a particular highlight, and the recommended steak entree is cooked to perfection. The owner, Cesar, is often present and takes time to chat with customers, sharing his love for Peruvian cuisine and stories from his childhood.

The restaurant is located in a modest storefront in a small shopping center in Rogers Park, but customers should not be put off by its unassuming appearance. The restaurant has a fantastic buzz, and the entertainment on offer two days a week adds to the overall experience. The prices are moderate, making it an affordable option for anyone looking to try authentic Peruvian cuisine.

Overall, Taste of Peru is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and delicious dining experience in Chicago. The restaurant offers genuine Peruvian cuisine, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and friendly service. The generous portions, BYOB policy, and affordable prices make it an excellent choice for families, couples, and groups of friends.

Medici on 57th

Address: 1327-1331, 1327 E 57th St, Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: +1 (773) 667-7394
Details: $$, Family restaurant

Medici on 57th is a popular Hyde Park eatery located next to the University of Chicago that has been a fixture in the area for years. Recently, they installed a few beer taps, a decent wine list, and some great cocktails, making it a comfortable replacement for their BYOB corkage fee. The menu offers a range of options, including great pizza, burgers, onion rings, and deli offerings, as well as good vegetarian options. The substantial weekend brunches are a popular neighborhood event.

The restaurant is popular with locals and has a super casual atmosphere that is welcoming to all. The wait staff is friendly and open to making modifications and substitutions to dishes on request. The food is excellent, and the homemade lemonade is a must-try. The bakery side of the restaurant offers fresh croissants and other baked goods that are not to be missed.

Medici on 57th is a great spot for a quick bite to eat with your significant other or to enjoy a meal with family and friends. The restaurant is BYOB, so customers can bring their own beer and wine to enjoy with their meal. The upstairs deck is a great place to enjoy a meal and take in the atmosphere. It’s no wonder that “The Med” was an Obama family favorite when they lived in the area full-time.

Overall, Medici on 57th is a casual gem in Hyde Park that offers excellent food, friendly service, and a comfortable atmosphere. The extensive menu, substantial weekend brunches, and bakery offerings make it a must-visit for anyone in the area.

S.K.Y

Address: 1239 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608
Phone: +1 (312) 846-1077
Details: $$$, American restaurant

S.K.Y is a must-visit restaurant in Chicago that offers excellent food, personable and kind service, and a comfortable atmosphere. The staff is welcoming and friendly, making customers feel right at home. The menu is diverse, and the dishes are shareable, making it a great spot for groups or couples. The warm mushroom salad, black truffle croquettes, and cornbread madeleines are particularly noteworthy.

The restaurant offers a three-course tasting menu that is a great value for the price. The portions are solid, and the food is so delicious that you won’t want to send a plate back empty. The short rib, fried chicken, and potato-crusted salmon are just a few of the standout dishes that customers rave about. The banana budino and cheesecake brulee are the perfect ending to a perfect meal.

S.K.Y is the first solo project of Chef Stephen Gillanders, who explores global influences in his dishes that feel both familiar and distinctive. The restaurant has a modern space housed inside a building constructed during the 19th century, and the service is especially accommodating with a bevy of safety precautions in place. The lobster dumplings and the signature Mille-Fuille are must-try dishes. Santiago, the great server, guides customers through their meal and ensures they have a fantastic dining experience.

Overall, S.K.Y is a fantastic restaurant that crushes everything. The authentic, personable, and kind service team, the hip and comfortable dining room and music, and the delicious and fresh food make it a must-visit spot in Chicago. Whether you come for brunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

Irazu

Address: 1865 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: +1 (773) 252-5687
Details: $, Costa Rican restaurant

Irazu is a fantastic BYOB restaurant in Chicago that serves authentic and delicious Costa Rican cuisine. The restaurant has a nice casual atmosphere and is perfect for gatherings with family and friends. The owner, Henry Cerdas, is a great host who makes customers feel welcome and comfortable. The empanadas, chifrijo, and plantains are some of the standout dishes that customers love.

The staff is friendly and attentive, and the service is flowing. The restaurant is often packed, so it’s best to make a reservation, especially for bigger groups. The food is fresh, full of flavor, and reasonably priced. Customers can bring their own libations, and the staff will mix it into one of their tasty concoctions. The restaurant has a nice patio as well as a nice indoor seating area.

Irazu is a must-visit restaurant in Chicago that has great vibes and good food. The ChiFrijo is a must-try dish that customers rave about. The lack of staff turnover speaks volumes about the quality of management and employee treatment. The food here makes customers’ lives right every time, and they can’t afford to not eat here. Overall, Irazu is an excellent choice for great food with great company, and customers will definitely want to come back.

EL Ideas

Address: 2419 W 14th St, Chicago, IL 60608
Phone: +1 (312) 226-8144
Details: $$$$, American restaurant

El Ideas is an exceptional BYOB restaurant located in the Douglas Park area of Chicago. The restaurant has a casual and unassuming décor with white tablecloths and exposed heating vents painted in graffiti style. The restaurant’s open kitchen design allows diners to watch the chefs in action and experience a culinary delight. The menu is a 12-course meal that changes often and is accommodating to dietary restrictions, allergies, and preferences. The dishes are artistically arranged on the plate, and each course is a surprise, with a unique blend of flavors and textures that are bold yet simple and refined.

The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and lively, and the staff is friendly, attentive, and passionate about taking care of every guest. Bill Talbott, front of house, is exceptional in customer service and genuinely cares about the guests’ experience. El Ideas is where fine dining meets a fun dinner party, where guests experience unexpected presentation and amazing flavors. The restaurant’s intimate environment and unique flavors make for a memorable night. The restaurant is unmarked, in an old warehouse-looking building on a small dead-end street, making it a hidden gem in the city.

The restaurant is BYOB, and guests can bring their favorite wine and enjoy a culinary experience. The chefs personally distribute the plates to the diners, and each course is just a few bites but has five to ten components artistically arranged on the plate. The restaurant’s goal is to start out fun and unpretentious, and the food on the plate could have been served at the fanciest of restaurants. El Ideas offers a special dining experience that deserves an enthusiastic following. It is a perfect choice for foodies who love to visit cool new spots and want to experience something unique and special.

90 Miles Cuban Cafe

Address: 2540 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: +1 (773) 227-2822
Details: $$, Cuban restaurant

90 Miles Cuban Cafe is a charming and authentic Cuban restaurant in Chicago that offers excellent service, delicious food, and a fun atmosphere. The restaurant is a hidden gem for breakfast and brunch with fewer crowds than typical brunch spots. The grilled meats are outstanding, with vegetarian and vegan options available. The tables are well-spaced, making it less noisy and crowded even during busy times. The restaurant is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their favorite drinks and enjoy them on the patio or second floor before being called to their table. The servers are friendly and attentive, making a significant difference, especially for larger parties.

The restaurant’s décor and ambiance are great, with a relaxed outside area to enjoy drinks before starting a meal. The large fan outside keeps diners comfortable, making it an excellent place to spend time hanging out on the patio or second floor. The atmosphere inside the restaurant takes you to Cuba right away, with a vibrant and fun vibe. The restaurant is a good value for its price, and the portions are healthy, making it a perfect place for a night out with friends or family.

90 Miles Cuban Cafe offers a diverse menu with outstanding food choices and quality that are off the chart. The Ropa Vieja is the best, with a sauce so good that it makes you wish you had a little bread to soak up the remaining sauce. The Pollo special is also very good, and the Calamara with the Ink is excellent, with the Ink adding Cuban ‘Umami’ and depth of flavor. The Empanadas are also excellent, and the dipping sauce is a must. The restaurant’s chocolate and vanilla flans are a great finish to the evening, and the Mango Mojito set up is perfect. Overall, 90 Miles Cuban Cafe is one of the best places in Chicago for those who crave Latin food and want to experience something unique and special.

Ramen Wasabi

Address: 2101 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: +1 (773) 227-8180
Details: $$, Ramen restaurant

Ramen Wasabi is a small but cozy restaurant in Chicago that serves authentic Japanese food. The restaurant has recently expanded to include a full bar and a new section for their famous Ramen dishes. The old section still offers Yakitori, Sushi, Takoyaki, and other Japanese specialties. The restaurant is BYOB, which adds to its charm and affordability. The menu is extensive and vegetarian-friendly, with fresh ingredients and creative presentations.

The food at Ramen Wasabi is outstanding, and many reviewers have praised the restaurant for its authentic Japanese taste. The pork belly buns are a must-try, and the ramen dishes are amazing, with the spicy pork belly ramen being a particular favorite. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the portions are healthy, making it a perfect place for a satisfying meal. The menu also includes vegetarian options, such as the Vegan Ramen and the Brussel sprouts, which are fantastic. The pork belly spring rolls are also a great starter and have an interesting mix of flavors.

The service at Ramen Wasabi is friendly and accommodating, with waiters who are knowledgeable about the menu and willing to help guests understand it. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, making it a perfect place for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The décor is nice, and the restaurant has a 99% Asian guests, making it a truly authentic Japanese experience. The restaurant does not take reservations, so it’s advisable to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a table. Overall, Ramen Wasabi is a fantastic Japanese restaurant with delicious food, good service, and a cozy atmosphere that makes it a must-try for anyone who loves Japanese cuisine.

BopNGrill

Address: 6604 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60626
Phone: +1 (773) 654-3224
Details: $$, Korean restaurant

BopNGrill is a Korean fast food restaurant located in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood. The restaurant has gained popularity among college students and food enthusiasts for its unique fusion of American and Korean cuisine. The menu offers a variety of options, from classic cheeseburgers and Italian beef to traditional Korean dishes such as kimchi and bulgogi.

One of the most popular dishes at BopNGrill is the Duxelle burger, made with a custom blend of fresh short rib, brisket, and chuck Angus beef, topped with truffled mushrooms, togarashi mayo, applewood smoked bacon, and smoked Gouda. The kimchi fries are also a must-try, made with caramelized kimchi, cheese sauce, applewood smoked bacon, scallions, and sesame seed truffle. The bulgogi beef plate and the fire chicken bowl are other favorites among customers.

The atmosphere at BopNGrill is casual and unpretentious, with a focus on great food and friendly service. The restaurant is BYOB, which adds to its affordability and allows customers to bring their favorite drinks. The menu offers options for both Korean and American tastes, making it a great spot for groups with different preferences. Overall, BopNGrill is a fantastic restaurant that offers a unique fusion of flavors and a great dining experience in a casual setting.

Kai Zan

Address: 2557 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: +1 (773) 278-5776
Details: $$$, Japanese restaurant

Kai Zan is a small and unobtrusive restaurant located in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago. The atmosphere is modern, restrained, and original. The restaurant has a corner wine and liquor store nearby, and offers BYOB with a reasonable corking fee for those who want to bring their own drinks. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful, and the service is efficient, friendly, and beyond reproach.

The food at Kai Zan is truly amazing, with quality, freshness, preparation, and presentation that exceed expectations. The Chef’s Omakase is a must-try, with unique and diverse flavors that showcase the chef’s great technique and attention to detail. The sashimi is melt-in-your-mouth good, and the sushi and sashimi are remarkably fresh and rich in flavor. The tasting menu is great value, with 11 courses that are all winners, including highly imaginative variations on the sushi and sashimi, and excellent cooked Japanese dishes.

The courses are served in small portions and exquisitely prepared, and they keep on coming, with highlights such as the tiny sushi pearls served with a truffle oil soy sauce, the Mediterranean sushi, the scallops and uni shooters, the flaming scallop wrapped in salmon, and the seaweed salad with a twist. The finale is a splendid dish of melt-in-your-mouth sashimi. The restaurant is perfect for a romantic evening, foodie friends, or even a business dinner for a small group, with appropriate matched sake or champagne.

Cozy Noodle & Rice

Address: 3456 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: +1 (773) 327-0100
Details: Thai restaurant

Cozy Noodle & Rice is a small Thai restaurant located near Wrigley Field in Chicago. The atmosphere is fun and eclectic, with walls covered in trinkets and Singer sewing machine stands used as tables. The staff is friendly, fast, and genuinely enjoys working there, as they are familiar with almost every customer that comes in. They only accept cash, but the menu is extensive, with a great selection of Thai dishes at affordable prices.

The food at Cozy Noodle & Rice is incredibly delicious, with genuine Thai flavors that exceed expectations. The curry broth is 10/10, the Pad Thai and General Tso’s chicken are must-tries, and the Wrigleyville noodle dish with chicken, beef, and shrimp is slightly sweet and spicy. The food comes out very fast, and the portions are generous, making it good value for the amount of food you get. The crab rangoon and Thai iced tea are the best you’ll find anywhere, and the Tom khar soup is rich and creamy.

Cozy Noodle & Rice is a required stop whenever you’re in Chicago, whether for a date, lunch, or dinner. The owners, Tee and Lou, are amazing and can often be seen giving high fives and hugs to returning customers. The restaurant is a Chicago gem, with warm service, great food, and a fun and cool ambiance. It’s a little hard to find, but worth the effort, and it’s even pretty delicious to go.

In conclusion, Chicago is home to a plethora of BYOB restaurants that offer an exceptional dining experience, without breaking the bank. From cozy neighborhood spots to upscale fine dining establishments, there is a BYOB restaurant to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for Italian, Mexican, or American cuisine, the city has a diverse range of options to choose from. So, the next time you’re planning a night out, consider trying one of these top BYOB restaurants in Chicago for a delicious and affordable dining experience.